Matthiola incana Iron Marine | Stock

Premium florist-quality stock with exceptionally strong stems and beautifully packed flower spikes.

Matthiola incana 'Iron Marine' is part of the outstanding Iron Series, developed for professional cut flower production. This variety produces sturdy, single-stem plants with densely packed, elegant flower spikes in a rich marine-purple shade. The compact arrangement of florets creates a full, luxurious appearance, while the excellent stem strength makes it ideal for bouquets and floral designs.

Unlike many traditional stock varieties, the Iron Series develops rigid, straight stems that remain strong throughout production and transport. The plants flower during the early to mid-season and offer excellent uniformity, making them suitable for succession sowing and commercial flower farming.

The fragrant blooms fill the garden and vase with the classic sweet, spicy scent that makes stock one of the most beloved spring cut flowers. The edible blossoms can also be used as decorative garnishes for salads, desserts, and cocktails.

Plant Details

• Botanical name: Matthiola incana
• Common name: Stock
• Series: Iron
• Flower colour: Deep marine-purple
• Plant type: Annual
• Plant height: 60–70 cm 
  
• Stem length: 60–70 cm
• Crop time: 13–15 weeks
• Days to maturity: 90–105 days
• Sun exposure: Full sun
• Plant spacing: 10–15 cm 
  
• Vase life: 5–10 days
• Use: Cut flower, edible flower, borders, containers
• Fragrance: Highly fragrant

Sowing Instructions

Sow seeds indoors 5–6 weeks before the last frost using plug trays. Cover seeds lightly with approximately 6 mm (¼") of growing medium and maintain a temperature of 18–24°C. Germination usually occurs within 7–14 days.

Transplant seedlings into fertile, well-drained soil after the danger of frost has passed. Stock thrives in cool growing conditions and performs best in spring and autumn. For continuous harvests, sow every two weeks.

Do not pinch plants, as each plant produces a single flowering stem and pinching will prevent flowering.

Harvest

Harvest stems when approximately one-third to one-half of the florets have opened for the longest vase life and best post-harvest performance.

Why You'll Love Iron Marine

• Premium florist-quality cut flower
• Strong, rigid stems ideal for bouquets
• Densely packed flower spikes
• Rich marine-purple blooms
• Sweet, spicy fragrance
• Excellent for professional and home cut flower gardens
• Suitable for succession sowing
• Edible flowers for culinary decoration

Perfect for flower farmers, florists, and gardeners looking for reliable, high-quality stock with exceptional stem strength and beautiful, fragrant blooms.